Tony (Antoine) Guilbert

1930 – 2025

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Tony (Antoine) Guilbert, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and cherished friend. Tony was the devoted husband of 52 years to the late Sharon Marie, a loving father to Terri (Jerry) and Jeff (Karen), a proud grandfather to Justin, Jacob, Thomas, and Erik, and a joyful great-grandfather to Kaylee and Nathan.

Born in Trois-Rivières, Quebec, Tony was the eldest son of 17 siblings and lived a life defined by courage, determination, and heart. At just 19 years old, he left his hometown for London, Ontario—without knowing a word of English—carrying nothing but ambition and a dream. From his first days living at the YMCA and working as a bakery helper and bowling alley pin-setter, Tony faced every challenge with resilience and optimism.

Tony soon found his calling in the food and beverage industry, where his natural charisma and work ethic set him apart. He began at Hotel London and later became manager of the Brass Rail Restaurant before making his mark in Toronto as the manager of the legendary Embassy Club. It was there that Tony’s sharp business sense and flair for entertainment came to life—famously stocking up on beer during a strike to keep the bar running and helping music icons like Ronnie Hawkins, Roy Orbison, Fats Domino, Brenda Lee, and Levon Helm shine on stage. The lines down Bellair Street were a testament to the electric atmosphere he helped create.

Tony rose through the ranks to become Vice President and General Manager of WiNCO Steak N’ Burger Restaurants Ltd., overseeing more than 50 restaurant locations and 1,200 employees across Canada. Even after early retirement, he kept busy, sharing his warmth and leadership at Delta Hotels, the Bitove Corporation at Toronto Airport, and golf courses in Aurora and Bradford.

Despite his busy career, Tony always made time for what mattered most—his family and friends. Whether spending weekends at his cottages boating, fishing, and snowmobiling in Muskoka and Parry Sound, or showing up to his grandkids’ games with candies and Diet Cokes, Tony brought joy wherever he went. His kindness extended to everyone—surprising fast food staff with treats, making strangers smile, and always signing off with his trademark line:

“Keep smiling—you’ll live longer.”

A devoted parishioner at Our Lady of Grace for over 40 years and a proud 75-year member of the Knights of Columbus, Tony lived a life rooted in faith, friendship, and community. He was deeply grateful for his thoughtful neighbours and for his dear friend Geri, whose daily visits brought comfort and joy in his later years.

Tony Guilbert’s legacy is one of laughter, loyalty, and love. He will be remembered for the light he brought into every room, the stories he shared, and the lives he touched.

He lived fully. He loved deeply. And he smiled often.

Rest in peace, Tony. You’ll be missed more than words can say.

A visitation for Tony will be held Friday, July 25, 2025 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Thompson Funeral Home, 530 Industrial Parkway South, Aurora, ON L4G 6W8.

A Funeral Mass will take place on Saturday, July 26, 2025 at 11 am at Our Lady of Grace Parish, 15347 Yonge St, Aurora, ON L4G 1N7. A reception will follow the Funeral Mass at Thompson Funeral Home, 530 Industrial Parkway South, Aurora, ON L4G 6W8. A committal service will follow afterwards at Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery, 8361 Yonge St, Markham, ON L3T 3M1.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Tony's memory may be made to Our Lady of Grace Parish, https://olgraceau.archtoronto.org/en/contact-us/donations/; and Ontario SPCA and Humane Society, https://ontariospca.ca/.